Donna The Duck

Frankton Ramp Is A Duck's Delight

(Reproduced from "AEGRE", Nov 1987.

It all started at Hawkesbury. I remember my friends Mel and Joan talking to a distinguished- looking man while I was having my morning dip. Phrases like "I'm sure she'd do it" and "she's got a ramp at home" and even "I know she would love to come" were flying about like dandelion seeds. Even so, I hadn't been prepared for that early start on Saturday, September 12, 1987, when I was awakened gently and given breakfast in bed.
After my morning dip and preen I was placed gently into my own compartment of my friends' car. It became apparent that this journey was to be longer than normal.
I soon dozed off, but between snoozes I heard from snatches of conversation in the car that we were going to the official opening of Frankton Locks which had been restored over the last eight years. I had been specially invited by Ron Read, chairman of NW Region IWA to open a newly-installed duck ramp.
As soon as we arrived Joan carried me to the ramp. We ducks usually manage our own exit from the water, but the banks at Frankton are a bit on the steep side. I was placed onto the ramp and off I swam. After a lovely splash and paddle I decided to make my exit. It wasn't as easy as it looked. Under the water level the ramp became very steep and as it was covered in algae. I found my webbed feet could not get a grip and I fell back. It was just as well this was just a rehearsal!

They lifted me out and took me back to my box for a rest while the ramp was scrubbed. "It'll be all right on the night, ducky," I was assured. When we returned to the canal it was quite a different sight this time. Narrow boats were passing through the locks cutting ribbons as they went, and there were hundreds of people milling around watching the proceedings. The official "Donna the Duck" name tag was around my neck as the moment arrived for my opening ceremony. Joan lowered me into the water and I gave my public a bit of a show - you know, lots of splashes and flapplngs and things. However I knew my duty and I was determined not to let anyone down. As I put my foot on the ramp I could feel it still would not be easy, but I persevered ­another foot then I felt a gentle pressure near my tail feathers as Joan lent a hand over the steep place. Then unaided I walked proudly up the ramp to the delight and applause of the crowds.
After all the excitement of all the cameras and seeing all the children who came to meet me, I was returned to the car for a well-earned rest.
It was on the journey home that I heard that I had been presented with an official plaque. My friends Mel and Joan were obviously very excited by this time and they chattered happily about it all the way home. I, for my part smiled to myself - highly satisfied with the day's events, but letting all the chatter flow over me - like water off a duck's back!